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Tehran Signals Defiance as Supreme Leader Vows Retaliation and Strait Closure

  A man holds a picture of Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, while people attend a funeral ceremony for the Iranian military commanders who were killed in strikes, in Tehran Iran’s Supreme Leader issued his first public remarks following the deaths of senior Iranian commanders, vowing that the country will “avenge the martyrs” and maintain the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz until what he described as “justice” is served. His comments, delivered during a nationally broadcast address, underscore a sharp escalation in rhetoric at a moment of heightened regional tension. The Supreme Leader framed the recent losses as sacrifices in the defense of Iran’s sovereignty, promising that those responsible “will face consequences.” He also reaffirmed Iran’s decision to keep the Strait closed, a move that has already disrupted global shipping routes and rattled energy markets. The strait, one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for oil transport, has long been a flas...

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China's Lunar New Year Travel Rush: A Record-Breaking 9 Billion Trips Expected

 

As the Lunar New Year approaches, China's annual travel rush, known as Chunyun, has kicked into high gear. This 40-day period, which began on January 14, 2025, is expected to see a record-breaking   9 billion trips. This massive movement of people is the world's largest annual migration, with most journeys made by car.

The Lunar New Year, marking the start of the Year of the Snake, falls on Wednesday, with New Year's Eve on Tuesday reserved for family gatherings and traditional fireworks displays. The travel rush will peak over the weekend, with 510 million trips by train and 90 million by air.

While the festival has traditionally been a time for families to reunite, rising prosperity has led many to travel overseas, with cross-border trips expected to rise by nearly 10%. Despite the economic challenges, the festive spirit remains strong, with temple markets and other traditional events drawing millions of visitors.

This year's extended public holiday, from January 28 to February 4, aims to boost consumer spending and support the economy. As travelers rush to their hometowns, the excitement and anticipation for the Year of the Snake celebrations are palpable.






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